Which of the following describes the idea that heat is transferred as thermal energy by the interaction of moving particles?
A. kinetic energy B. the theory of thermal equilibrium C. the kinetic theory of heat D. thermal energy
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is C. the kinetic theory of heat.
The kinetic theory of heat explains how heat is transferred as thermal energy through the motion and interaction of particles. According to this theory, all matter is made up of particles (atoms or molecules) that are in constant motion. The speed and energy of these particles are directly related to the temperature of the substance. As these particles collide with one another, they transfer kinetic energy, which is perceived as heat. The more rapid the movement of particles, the higher the temperature, and consequently, more heat is transferred.
In solids, the particles vibrate in fixed positions but still interact with their neighbors through these vibrations, transferring thermal energy. In liquids and gases, the particles move more freely, leading to more frequent collisions, which allow heat to be transferred more rapidly. The rate of energy transfer increases with temperature because the average kinetic energy of the particles increases.
The concept of thermal equilibrium (option B) is related but distinct. It describes the state in which two objects in thermal contact no longer exchange heat because they are at the same temperature. Heat transfer happens until thermal equilibrium is reached.
Kinetic energy (option A) refers to the energy possessed by an object due to its motion, but the kinetic theory of heat applies this principle specifically to the microscopic particles in matter and explains how their motion leads to the transfer of thermal energy.
Thus, the kinetic theory of heat not only describes the motion of particles but also explains the mechanism by which heat (or thermal energy) is transferred between them through collisions and interactions.